1974 Honda Z vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1974 Honda Z. (24 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 1436 kg more than 1974 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Saturn ION (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda Z. (30 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda Z. 2006 Saturn ION has automatic transmission and 1974 Honda Z has manual transmission. 1974 Honda Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda Z | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Honda | Saturn |
| Model | Z | ION |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 30 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2630 mm |
